The birth of a child is often considered one of the happiest moments of a woman's life. But for some women, it is also a difficult transitional period, marked by intense emotional and psychological challenges.
It is rarely talked about, but postpartum depression affects 1 in 5 mothers . This type of depression that occurs after childbirth affects the well-being of young parents, but also their family relationships and sometimes the bond with their baby.
In this article, we explore together what postpartum depression is, its causes, symptoms, as well as possible treatments.
Postpartum depression: definition
Postpartum depression (PPD), also called postnatal depression, affects 1 in 5 mothers in the first 4 weeks after giving birth . It can also appear later, usually around 3 months postpartum.
It is often confused with the baby blues . But unlike the latter, PPD generally only lasts a few days or weeks at most. If it is not treated, the risk is that it can extend over several months or even last more than a year.
Hence the importance of learning to detect it in order to take care of it!
What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression is not just a mild feeling of depression. It has many other symptoms that can vary from person to person.
Below we have listed the most common symptoms for you:
- Lack of energy, increased fatigue
- Loss of self-confidence, doubts
- Difficulty caring for your baby
- Loss of pleasure and interest
- Feeling of deep sadness, crying, tears
- Negative thoughts, guilt, feelings of incompetence, sometimes even suicidal thoughts
- Sleep disturbance, insomnia
- Difficulty carrying out daily tasks or simple actions
- Anxiety
- Migraine
- Difficulty managing emotions: irritability
- Different appetite
These symptoms are not always easy to spot... If you feel the slightest doubt about your mental health, it is possible to answer this questionnaire to assess your emotional well-being in a few minutes.
Set up by the French State, it helps you detect the signs of possible depression. Of course, it does not replace medical advice , but it is a first step towards awareness.
Depending on your result, it is advisable to make an appointment with your doctor so that he can make a more in-depth diagnosis and support you.
Know that there is no shame in feeling one or more of these symptoms . Birth is a special time for you and your family, it is normal to have a period of adaptation . These upheavals can affect your morale, but it is not a sign of weakness.
What are the factors of depression?
There is no single cause when it comes to depression , but rather many contextual factors which, when taken together, can promote postnatal depression.
This may be due to:
- A lack of support from those around you;
- Conflicts in the relationship with your partner;
- A complicated delivery (early, cesarean, long, painful, etc.);
- Financial difficulties;
- A history of depressive episodes;
A psychologist or psychiatrist can sometimes help you see things more clearly and understand what events may have triggered the depression.
What to do in case of postnatal depression?
Like many illnesses, depression can be treated .
The first thing to do if you experience symptoms of depression is to consult a healthcare professional . This may include:
- Your treating physician;
- Your midwife;
- Your psychologist;
- The doctor during your perinatal interview;
- A PMI center ;
By assessing the intensity (mild or more severe) and the potential causes of your depression, a doctor may be able to suggest appropriate treatment.
Is there a treatment for postpartum depression?
Treatment is not always medicinal. On the contrary, it is even what is proposed as a last resort.
In general, doctors prefer psychotherapy with a psychologist or psychiatrist.
With the Mon soutien psy system, you can benefit from 12 psychological support sessions per year (i.e. one session per month) which are fully reimbursed. To benefit from this, all you need is a letter from your doctor. You can then find a licensed psychologist on the official Ameli.fr website.
And at home, how to manage postpartum depression?
If possible, it is recommended that you get help at home : from your partner, family or friends.
With the birth of a baby, it's easy to forget to take care of yourself. You may find yourself not eating properly (skipping meals, eating fast foods, unbalanced meals) or even skipping a few showers, not to mention your sleep pattern can take a hit.
This is normal, but it doesn't help if you are experiencing a depressive episode.
So, if possible, alternate sleeping with your partner so that while one is resting, the other is taking care of the newborn. Try to find frequent times to eat balanced meals, rich in protein, as well as some time to relax in the shower.
It's not easy, but sometimes it's such seemingly innocuous care that makes the difference!
Are fathers affected by postpartum depression?
For fathers too, the birth of a child is synonymous with great upheaval.
Whether during pregnancy or after the baby's arrival, it is noted that more than one in ten fathers experience depression when they hear about or at the time of the birth of their child .
The symptoms and causes are similar to those of mothers, as are the possible treatments.
It is important to dare to ask for help and to talk about it with those around you or your loved ones so as not to go through this period alone. We still talk very little about postpartum depression in dads, but it is just as important to detect.
How to prevent postpartum depression?
Unfortunately, there is no magic recipe. As we mentioned, there are many causes over which you may not have control.
But it is still possible to try to prepare yourself as best you can for the changes that come with motherhood to reduce stress and anxiety factors:
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Attend birth and parenting preparation sessions : Even if you already have a child, taking these classes helps you anticipate the unexpected (a source of anxiety for many parents!). Seeing - or reviewing - the essentials helps you gain confidence.
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Learn about upcoming changes : Whether physical, emotional, hormonal or organizational, changes will occur before, during and after birth. You can learn in advance about what happens in your body after childbirth, to better understand your reactions.
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Communicating with your partner : This point is similar to the previous one. It is essential to communicate in your relationship about your feelings, your anxieties, the problems you encounter. It is important that the person who shares your life understands what you are going through - and vice versa! Communication is particularly important in the context of the new organization of daily life, to ensure that you will help each other .
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Take care of yourself : Your diet has a direct effect on your mood and fatigue, so it's important to pay attention to it. And the same goes for your sleep. Try to rest as much as possible, don't refuse opportunities that arise. And finally, if possible, find some time for yourself : a relaxing shower, an hour of reading without your baby, or a trip to the park.
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Learn about your baby's needs and development : Just like you, your baby will be going through many changes in the first few days. Their body will grow and develop, as will their cognitive abilities. You can learn about the changes they will experience, to understand their sleep patterns or the origin of their crying, for example.
Skin-to-skin and physiological carrying, practices beneficial for your mental health
Skin-to-skin and its impact on parents’ well-being
Numerous studies have proven that skin-to-skin contact greatly helps combat postpartum depression.
This practice involves lying with your baby against your chest, skin to skin . A band is used to hold the baby in place and keep him warm.
WHO recommends skin-to-skin contact from the birth of a child for its benefits for both parent and baby .
By practicing skin-to-skin contact, your body secretes oxytocin, also known as the “happy hormone.” This hormone helps you relax and enjoy the moment, but also strengthens the unique bond you have with your child .
If postpartum depression is making the first few weeks of life with your baby more difficult, skin-to-skin contact can help you gradually build a bond that feels good to you and your baby.
Physiological carrying to combat postpartum depression
Using a baby carrier is a practice that has benefits beyond simple practicality. More than just an alternative to the bulky stroller, it is also a way to bond with your baby while having your hands free .
According to several studies, babywearing promotes self-confidence and reduces stress . Whether at home or outdoors, you can go about your business while keeping your child close, against you.
This method of carrying has proven its effectiveness among parents in reducing the risks of postpartum depression and speeding up remission.
The other advantage is that carrying gives you more ways to take some time for yourself : it makes it easier to go out in town, with friends or anywhere to recharge your batteries.
From birth, Sling baby carriers allow you to get started very simply. They slip into a handbag or changing bag and accompany you everywhere: think about them to make your daily life as a parent easier!
Experiencing postpartum depression, a challenge but not a weakness
When you suffer from postpartum depression, it can be easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed. But remember: you are not alone. Talk to your doctor, a PMI, a parent exchange group or your loved ones, they can help you get through this difficult time.
Depression is not a weakness, and experiencing its symptoms does not make you a bad parent. Just like your baby, you need to adjust to the changes that come your way, and this can take time and seem difficult at first. But with the right help, you will get through it and live your motherhood body and soul.